Last year’s films were phenomenal! Several of the filmmakers and actors were at the screenings to answer questions and talk about their experiences, including a group that came all the way from Japan! This is a real treat for film lovers and a great way to see something different and fresh in the film world. Definitely not to be missed! We still have rooms left at Sakura Ridge, so get your passes and start planning your vacation weekend now. See you soon!

Of course, we always hope for a few more weeks of Indian Summer in October, but inevitably there will be a few rainy days this month. Luckily there is still plenty to do around Sakura Ridge.

I love strolling through the The Columbia Center for the Arts on a rainy afternoon to check out the newest show in the gallery or take in a live performance. This month, the feature event is “The Crush: A Celebration of Columbia Gorge Wines and Fine Art.” All month long, the gallery will feature works that celebrate the sensuality of wine and the excitement of the harvest season. Every Friday there will be a wine tasting featuring a local winery culminating with a special event on the 25th that will bring together winemakers and vineyardists for a conversation on winemaking in the Gorge. What better way to spend a crisp fall Friday night!

Every summer thousands come to Hood River to play in our world famous wind, ride mountain bike trails, and pick delicious fruit. Believe it or not, there is more to do in Hood River!

We have a thriving arts community that fills three galleries downtown, puts on live performances year round, and fills local venues with music. The Columbia Center for the Arts CAST theater presents 4 shows annually. This summer they featured “Love, Loss and What I Wore,” by Nora and Delia Ephron. I had a chance to catch the show with a friend of mine last week and it was funny, moving and uplifting; definitely a great night out on the town.

Springhouse Cellar Winery

August 2nd, the Portland band, Black Prairie will be playing at Springhouse Cellar Winery. This acoustic string-band consists of members of The Decemberists, Jackstraw, Woolwines, Bearfoot, and Dolorean playing music ranging from uptempo bluegrass and old-time Americana to Klezmir gypsy tunes. It is sure to be a great show and another fabulous night in Hood River. Get your tickets now and book the last room on the Ridge for the night!